The sexually acquired disease characterized by genital ulcers and tender inguinal lymphadenopathy, which is caused by a small, gram-negative bacillus, is known as

• A. Chancroid
• B. Bacterial vaginosis
• C. Syphilis
• D. Trachoma

Answer: (A)

The main idea is recognizing chancroid from its hallmark signs and the organism behind it. This sexually transmitted infection causes painful genital ulcers and tender inguinal lymphadenopathy, and it is produced by Haemophilus ducreyi, a small gram-negative bacillus. The ulcers typically have ragged, undermined edges with a purulent base, and the nearby lymph nodes swell and may suppurate, giving a tender, swollen groin feel.

This presentation helps distinguish it from other conditions. Syphilis, for example, presents with a painless hard chancre and non-tender regional lymphadenopathy and is caused by Treponema pallidum, a spirochete. Bacterial vaginosis involves vaginal discharge and odor rather than ulcers. Trachoma is an eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and is not an ulcer disease of the genital area.